Legendary “At Last” singer Etta James has died at age 73 after her battle with leukemia.
According to her close friend and manager Lupe De Leon, James died at a hospital in Riverside, Calif. with her husband, Artis Mills, and sons by her side.
“This is a tremendous loss for the family, her friends and fans around the world,” De Leon said. “She was a true original who could sing it all– her music defied category. I worked with Etta for over 30 years. She was my friend and I will miss her always.”
James was diagnosed with leukemia in 2010 and also suffered from dementia and hepatitis C.
Known as “Miss Peaches,” James produced hits such as “The Wallflower (Roll With Me, Henry),” “Something’s Got A Hold On Me,” ”I’d Rather Go Blind” and the classic ballad “At Last.” Over her career, she garnered six Grammys, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of fame, Blues Hall of Fame and Rockabilly Hall of Fame. She also has a spot in the Grammy Hall of Fame and was given the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the James family during this difficult time.